Lambs Ear

Lambs Ear, Woolly Hedgenettle, Stachys lanata

Stachys lanata, commonly known as Lamb’s Ear, is a low-growing, perennial plant that is valued for its soft, silvery, woolly foliage. Native to Eurasia, this plant is often used in gardens for its unique texture, drought tolerance, and its ability to thrive in a variety of growing conditions. It is also commonly used as ground cover or as an edging plant due to its compact growth habit.

Key Features of Stachys lanata (Lamb’s Ear):

• Size: Lamb’s Ear typically grows to a height of 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 cm) and spreads about 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 cm). It forms a dense, low mound of foliage, making it a great ground cover or border plant.
• Foliage: The plant’s most striking feature is its soft, velvety, silvery-gray leaves that are covered in fine hairs, giving them a “woolly” appearance. The leaves are typically oval-shaped, ranging from 3 to 6 inches (7.5 to 15 cm) long, and create a soft texture that is pleasant to the touch.
• Flowers: In late spring to early summer, Stachys lanata produces spikes of small, tubular flowers that are usually pale purple or pink. While the flowers are attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies, they are not the main ornamental feature of the plant. Many gardeners choose to prune them back to maintain the plant’s neat foliage appearance.
• Growth Habit: Lamb’s Ear forms a rosette of foliage at ground level, with stems of flowers that rise above the foliage. The plant spreads by runners, slowly filling in gaps in the landscape.

Growing Conditions and Care:

• Sunlight: Stachys lanata thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. In full sun, the silvery foliage is most vibrant and the plant will flower more profusely.
• Soil: Lamb’s Ear prefers well-draining soil, particularly sandy or loamy soils. It is tolerant of poor soil conditions and can handle slightly alkaline soils. However, it does not do well in heavy, waterlogged soil.
• Watering: This plant is drought-tolerant once established, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping or areas with low water availability. Regular watering is needed during the establishment phase, but once it is mature, it requires minimal watering.
• Climate: Stachys lanata is fairly tolerant of cold temperatures but can suffer in excessively wet conditions during the winter. In warmer climates, it may die back in the heat of summer if not given enough water and shade.
• Growth Rate: Lamb’s Ear grows at a moderate rate, forming clumps over time. It is low-maintenance, and once established, it requires little care beyond occasional deadheading or pruning.

Benefits and Uses:

• Textural Contrast: The silvery, fuzzy leaves provide a unique texture in the garden and contrast beautifully with other plants that have different leaf shapes or colors. It pairs well with plants that have brightly colored flowers or dark green foliage.
• Ground Cover: Lamb’s Ear works well as a ground cover, filling in gaps and helping to suppress weeds. Its dense foliage provides a natural mulch, which helps retain moisture in the soil and prevent erosion.
• Pollinator-Friendly: The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it a great addition to a wildlife-friendly garden.
• Low Maintenance: Stachys lanata is highly drought-tolerant and disease-resistant, making it an excellent choice for low-maintenance gardens. It requires little pruning and is fairly pest-resistant.

Additional Tips:

• Pruning: While the flowers of Stachys lanata are lovely, the plant is often grown for its foliage. To maintain a neat appearance, you can deadhead the spent flowers after they bloom, or trim back any leggy stems. Some gardeners also shear the plant back in late winter or early spring to encourage fresh new growth.
• Winter Care: In colder climates, lamb’s ear may benefit from some winter protection, such as mulch or covering during extreme freezes. However, it generally handles cold winters well, provided the soil drains adequately and doesn’t stay wet.
• Division: Lamb’s Ear spreads slowly by runners, but if it becomes too large or overcrowded, it can be divided in early spring or fall to maintain its health and vigor.

Summary:

Stachys lanata (Lamb’s Ear) is a beautiful, low-maintenance perennial that adds texture and visual interest to gardens. Its soft, silvery leaves and drought tolerance make it an excellent choice for ground cover, borders, or mixed beds. With its ability to thrive in a range of conditions and minimal care requirements, it is a popular choice among gardeners seeking a hardy and attractive plant that also supports pollinators.